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RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Nurikabe

Play Nurikabe ↗

Game guide · DTJSMODEL

Getting started with Nurikabe

Open Nurikabe, check the instructions and begin a round. Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Read the objective before making your first input. Use the example below to understand a decision.

Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.

Practice with a purpose

Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Keep the objective visible.

Aim for this result

Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.

Step by step

  1. Shade sea squares and leave islands white.
  2. Every island contains exactly one clue.
  3. Different islands cannot meet along an edge.
  4. Check puzzle verifies sizes, connectivity and forbidden sea blocks.

Controls

Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.

Learn from a sample situation

An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Keep the controls nearby.

An important reminder

Two numbered islands may not merge into one. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention.

Answers about the rules and controls

Before I begin, what is the goal of Nurikabe?

Here is the relevant explanation: Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block.

For this browser game, how do I control Nurikabe?

The key detail is this: Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution.

While learning, what example helps explain Nurikabe?

The key detail is this: An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea.

On this playing page, what should I watch out for in Nurikabe?

For clarity: Two numbered islands may not merge into one.

Before I begin, what format does Nurikabe offer?

Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.

For my first round, which play mode does Nurikabe use?

For clarity: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.

For a quick reminder, where should I start with Nurikabe?

Keep this in mind: Shade sea squares and leave islands white.

When I return, do I need an account or a payment for Nurikabe?

Keep this in mind: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

As a new player, how can I find Nurikabe again?

Here is the relevant explanation: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.

On this playing page, how do I report an issue with Nurikabe?

Use the contact form and include the game name, browser, device and the actions that led to the issue. Do not send passwords or payment details.

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